Crackdown on mobile phone use for drivers after dozens of collisions in West Mercia

Motorists could face fines of up to £1,000 and could lose their licence particularly if they are a new driver.

West Mercia Police have welcomed the new legislation, saying there have been almost 50 accidents in the region in the last three years when mobile phones have been a cause.

From March 25, the Government strengthened the law to make it illegal to use a handheld mobile phone behind the wheel for virtually any use.

A national campaign has been launched by THINK! to raise awareness of the changes, which bans virtually any use such as taking photos or videos, scrolling through playlists, online chat functions or playing games.

Police say since 2019 there have been 49 collisions in West Mercia where use of a mobile phone was listed as a contributory factor, leading to nine serious injuries and 40 slight injuries.

Research has shown that drivers who use a mobile phone while driving are slower at recognising and reacting to hazards, fail to see road signs, fail to maintain proper lane position and steady speed and are much less aware of what’s happening on the road around them.

If caught using your mobile phone behind the wheel you could receive a fine up to £1,000 and six penalty points, which for a newly-qualified driver could mean losing their licence.

The only exemptions that still remain are hands-free use while driving if secured in a cradle, allowing sat nav use.

Superintendent Steph Brighton said: "Hands-free, although legal, is still not ideal as it will reduce your level of concentration while driving, putting yourself and other road users at risk. Drivers must always take responsibility for their driving and can still be charged with an offence if the police find them not to be in proper control of their vehicle. There is also an exemption that allows contactless payments such as those at a drive-through or on toll roads so long as the vehicle is stationary.

“Driving while distracted by a mobile phone is completely unacceptable and puts everyone on the roads at risk of serious harm. Everyone knows the use of handheld mobile phones whilst driving is against the law and we are very clear that when you get behind the wheel it is your responsibility to stay focused and alert.

"We welcome the new national changes as this is very clear that the law not only covers making and receiving calls but also the use of social media, messaging and streaming. It’s concerning that we still have drivers across West Mercia who are willing to risk driving whilst distracted and it is a year-round commitment for us to challenge this behaviour."